Photos by Scot GoodMan & others

"A hip, unstuffy, and malleable group of high-quality chamber musicians who are dedicated to fresh programming" raves the SF Classical Voice, "Ensemble San Francisco seems welcoming, warm, and well-positioned to expand not only its repertoire of high-quality performances, but also its circle of friendship."

Ensemble San Francisco was founded in early 2013 by pianist Christine McLeavey Payne and clarinetist Roman Fukshansky, and draws its musicians from the SF Symphony, Ballet, and Opera orchestras and beyond.

In addition to its mainstage performances, Ensemble SF is dedicated to bringing world class music to schools, hospitals, and nursing homes. ESF musicians generously donate their time to share their love of chamber music with children, youth, and elders. Through new concert experiences and education of the next generation, ESF is vital in the cultural fabric of the Bay Area.

Kim on cello and Young on viola looked like they were having such a good time that they might just stand up and dance during the performance. Not only was [the concert] sold out, but in fact oversold to an unusually young and enthusiastic crowd… The entire event was so enjoyable that I can’t wait to see what they do next! —Michael Strickland, SF Civic Center